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‘A lot of excitement’: Robbie Fowler says ‘amazing’ Liverpool target could have similar effect to Virgil van Dijk arrival

Ben Evans

Sun 25 September 2022 13:45, UK Updated Sun 25 September 2022 14:23, UK

Robbie Fowler believes Liverpool need to sign Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham.

Bellingham has been one of Dortmund’s standout players this season, and his reputation continues to grow.

He earned his 15^th England cap on Friday against Italy, playing alongside Declan Rice in midfield.

There’s already plenty of speculation about Bellingham’s future, with a move next summer being touted by Fabrizio Romano.

The ‘amazing’ youngster could follow in the footsteps of Erling Haaland by impressing for Dortmund before moving to the Premier League.

Fowler: Liverpool need to sign Bellingham

“There is a lot of excitement amongst Liverpool fans that Bellingham is destined for Anfield.

“Bellingham is the kind of player Klopp needs.

“Every team needs to be refreshed now and then – and I think the arrival of Bellingham next summer would lift Liverpool in the same way that signing (Virgil) Van Dijk once did.

“According to the noises coming out of Borussia Dortmund, it will take an offer in excess of £130million to tempt them to cash in.

“Manchester City, Chelsea, Real Madrid and Paris St Germain have that kind of financial might.

“But anyone else? I’m not so sure.”

Fowler’s belief that Bellingham could have a similar effect to Van Dijk is a big claim.

The Dutch defender has transformed Liverpool defensively, and given Jurgen Klopp’s side the perfect platform to build attacks from.

Bellingham would be jewel in Klopp’s future midfield

Liverpool have had issues in midfield this season, with injuries causing havoc for Klopp.

The Reds already have a host of exciting young midfield talents, including Harvey Elliott, Fabio Carvalho, Curtis Jones and Stefan Bajcetic.

Bellingham would be a level above these players though, and could lead Liverpool’s midfield for years to come.

Fowler’s worries about Liverpool’s ability to compete financially with the world’s other biggest clubs could be a concern.

However, in Darwin Nunez, Virgil van Dijk and Alisson, Liverpool have shown they’re not afraid to spend big when necessary.

Liverpool legend Fowler’s belief that his former side need to sign Bellingham won’t surprise many.

With one report suggesting the Reds are in pole position to bring him in next summer, that hope could become a reality.